5 great British shopping breaks

Friday 18 November 2016

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to indulge in some retail therapy. Finding the perfect gift while spending quality time with your loved ones ahead of the festivities, take a British shopping break and you'll find famous shopping hotspots and big bargains in lesser-known boutiques. Britain is a goldmine of shopping opportunities that suit all budgets and Flying Scot Glasgow gives you inspiration to explore Britain's best loved retail hubs...

London

Widely considered to be one of the best cities in the world, London is home to some of the most unique shopping opportunities on both a national and an international scale. Housing some of the best-known brands’ flagship stores on Oxford Street and Regent Street, this fashionable shopping district takes retail therapy to a new level. Come Christmas time, 1,778 lights hang high above these style-miles, making London one of the most magical must-visit destinations during the winter months.

Belfast

Just a 45 minute flight across the water from Glasgow Airport, Belfast is a culturally-rich city that proudly offers a shopping experience like no other. Diversity is at the forefront of Belfast’s shopping district - with the area boasting two iconic shopping centres in the heart of the city, as well as an array of family owned businesses, unique markets and designer boutiques.

Experience one of the city’s oldest attractions at the award-winning St George’s Market, and with local traders selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, you’re sure to find a gift that’s truly one of a kind.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is steeped in rich history and culture, and it’s the uninterrupted views of the city’s medieval castle from the main retail district that makes the Scottish capital one of the most scenic shopping destinations in the country. A perfect combination of tradition and contemporary shopping habits, Edinburgh’s Princes Street offers an array of big name brands - and gives shoppers a spectacular view of the Old Town cityscape. Home to the historic Jenners department store, as well as popular local produce markets, there’s no shortage of things to explore in this quaint capital city.

Leeds

Leeds Light Night - Image by Tom Blackwell on Flickr

Boasting all the best high street names in its two iconic shopping centres, Trinity Leeds and Victoria Gate, Leeds’ shopping opportunities leave other cities unable to compete. From the quirky lesser-known brands to all of the must-have designer labels, the diversity that the vibrant city of Leeds offers makes it a serious contender for the UK’s best shopping destination. Nestled among an array of eclectic vintage pop-up shops, discover the Leeds Corn Exchange - an iconic building that’s home to a superb selection of independent eateries and unique boutiques. After indulging in all the retail therapy you can handle, make sure you sample the city’s mouthwatering selection of gourmet street food in Trinity Kitchen or perhaps take in the city’s stunning skyline as you sip a cool cocktail on The Alchemist’s rooftop bar.

Manchester

From its iconic architecture to its creative, indie culture, there’s an endless list of reasons why you should visit this vibrant metropolis. For a shopping experience that’s truly unique, discover the extensive collection of quirky pop-up shops, independent food stalls and luxurious beauty salons in the Northern Quarter. Home to the luxurious department stores, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, the city of Manchester provides an unbeatable shopping experience to suit all budgets.

As well as housing all the high street names that you could desire in the luxurious Trafford Centre, Manchester’s large shopping complex also boasts an extensive range of exciting entertainment options. Make a day out of your shopping experience, and explore the array of unique activities on offer with the tropical themed golf course and Sea Life aquarium.

Whether you’re exploring the wealth of culture and traditions in Britain’s vibrant cities or experiencing the diversity that surrounds the nation’s shopping scene, visiting all corners of the country couldn’t be easier - whatever your budget.

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